Assembly minority leader backs Uber and Lyft expansion upstate

New York's Assembly minority leader is urging the body to accelerate authorization of ride-hailing services in upstate communities.

Republican Brian Kolb says he hopes the Assembly will quickly consider legislation that will permit ride-hailing apps to begin services north of New York City in time for the busy July Fourth weekend.

Lawmakers voted earlier this year to allow Uber and Lyft to expand into upstate New York with a 90-day waiting period. But the delay pushed the date to July 9 when lawmakers and Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo failed to reach a deal on a state budget on time.

Kolb made his comments Friday and says allowing for the apps to begin before the holiday carries "economic rewards and public safety benefits."

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